Do you have a tooth abscess? Let's learn about tooth abscesses!

Have you ever had an unbearable toothache? Remember that day when you couldn't eat or drink properly, couldn't sleep at night, and were angry all day? Sometimes, along with that pain, you may have noticed that the gums have become red, swollen, and have developed a small blister or abscess. That's what we call a tooth abscess, or a dental abscess, or simply a tooth abscess . This is not something that should be left untreated. So, let's talk about it in detail today.

Simply put, what is a tooth abscess?

A dental abscess is a small pocket of pus that forms around a tooth due to a bacterial infection in the gums. It's similar to a pimple. It usually looks like a red, swollen bump. Although it only affects the tooth in question, sometimes the infection can spread to the surrounding jawbone and other teeth.

These germs are divided into three main types depending on where they grow.

Can this be dangerous if left untreated?

Yes, absolutely. Many people think that a toothache will go away in a few days and that the problem is over. But a tooth abscess is not that simple. If you don't treat it properly, the consequences can be quite serious.

Although very rare, this infection can travel through the bloodstream and affect the heart (endocarditis) and even the brain (bacterial meningitis) . Therefore, if you experience tooth pain or swelling, never ignore it.

Who is most at risk of developing these?

Although anyone can develop a dental abscess, some people are at a higher risk. See if you fall into one of these categories.

• Smokers: Smokers are at about twice the risk as non-smokers.
• People with dry mouth (Xerostomia): When saliva production in the mouth decreases, bacteria become more susceptible to growth.
• People with poor oral hygiene: People who do not brush their teeth properly, floss daily, or have their teeth cleaned by a dentist can develop this condition due to the accumulation of bacteria.
• People with a weak immune system: If your body's ability to resist disease is reduced due to certain diseases (e.g. diabetes) or certain medications, it becomes difficult for your body to fight germs.

What are the symptoms of this?

If you have a tooth abscess, you may experience a variety of symptoms. There are symptoms that are primarily felt in and around the tooth, as well as general symptoms that affect the entire body.

Why does something like this happen? What are the reasons?

Simply put, anything that creates a path for bacteria to enter the tooth or the tissues around the tooth can cause this.

• Severely decayed teeth: Tooth decay is the destruction of the enamel on the teeth. The sugars in the foods we eat and drink are broken down by bacteria and produce acids. These acids destroy the enamel on the teeth. Bacteria can easily enter through the cavities that form in this way.
• Chipped, broken, or cracked teeth: If there is even a small crack in a tooth, bacteria can enter through it and start an infection.
• Periodontal disease: If there is an infection and swelling in the gums, over time bacteria can travel to the deeper tissues around the teeth.
• Tooth trauma: Sometimes, when a tooth is traumatized by something like a fall, even if there is no visible fracture, the soft part inside the tooth (pulp) can be damaged. This type of damage can easily lead to infection.

How does a doctor find this?

When you visit a dentist, the first thing he or she will do is carefully examine your tooth and the area around it. In addition, they may also do the following:

• Taking an X-ray of the tooth: This can help determine the cause of the infection. It can also help determine how far the infection has spread and whether it has spread to other areas.
• CT scan: If there is a suspicion that the infection has spread to other parts of the neck, a CT scan may be recommended to see exactly how far it has spread.
• Tapping the tooth: A tooth with a cyst is usually very sensitive to touch or pressure.
• Thermal tests: Hot or cold objects can be placed on the tooth to check the health of the pulp inside the tooth.

What are the treatments? Can't I get better at home?

The first and most important thing to say is that a tooth abscess will never heal on its own, even with home treatments.

There are two main goals of treatment. One is to completely eliminate the infection. The other is to prevent complications caused by the infection. Here are the treatment options available for this.

1. Incision and drainage: The doctor makes a small incision in the abscess and drains the pus inside. Sometimes, a small rubber tube may be inserted to allow any remaining pus to drain.

2. Root Canal Treatment: This is the best way to save your tooth by eliminating the infection. This involves removing the infected soft part (pulp) inside the tooth and filling the space with a special material to prevent further infection. After the treatment, a dental crown may be placed to protect the tooth. If taken care of properly, a tooth treated in this way can last a lifetime.

3. Tooth Extraction: Sometimes the damage to a tooth is so severe that it cannot be saved in any way. In such cases, the doctor may decide to extract the tooth and remove it.

4. Antibiotics: Your doctor may give you antibiotics to help control the infection. But remember, while these medications may help kill germs, they won't cure the underlying cause of the infection, which is the damaged tooth. You will definitely need to try one of the treatments mentioned above.

Is it urgent? When do you need to go to ETU?

For a normal toothache, you should see a dentist. However, if you have a tooth abscess and any of the symptoms below, it is an emergency. You should go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.

• If you have a fever of 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 Fahrenheit) or higher.
• If you have difficulty swallowing food and drink.
• If the face is swollen.
• If your memory seems confused, if you feel confused while standing.
• If the heartbeat is fast.

These symptoms indicate that the infection is spreading rapidly throughout the body. So don't delay.

How can this situation be prevented from occurring?

Wouldn't it be better to prevent this from happening than to have to go through such a painful experience? There are a few very simple things you can do to do that.

• Good oral hygiene habits: Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day. Floss daily to remove food particles stuck between your teeth.
• Regular dental checkups: Visit your dentist at least once a year for a checkup and cleaning if necessary. This will help you identify and treat any problems as they arise.
• Reduce sugary foods and drinks: Reduce your intake of sugary drinks and sweets as much as possible. If you do eat or drink them, rinse your mouth immediately.
• Seek immediate treatment if a tooth is broken: If a tooth is even slightly broken or fractured, see a doctor without delay.

The best thing to do is to take care of your oral health, rather than waiting for a toothache to occur.

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